Former Minnesota Vikings captain Jack Brewer has publicly criticized Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve for wearing a "trans kids belong" shirt. Brewer called the coach's message "disgusting" and "sad," expressing concern over what he perceives as the promotion of ideologies that harm young girls in sports.
Brewer's comments came in response to Reeve's attire during a WNBA game between the Lynx and the Indiana Fever, which coincided with a rally supporting Fever player Sophie Cunningham's stance on protecting women's sports. Outside the Target Center, activists supporting Cunningham's views on transgender athletes in women's sports were met by counter-protesters.
"It is sad to think that young girls in Minnesota are coming to games and watching teams promote something like that," Brewer stated. "It is ridiculous to think that a grown woman would go so hard in support of men playing against women and entering women’s locker rooms." He added that the shirt promotes the idea that children who "should be receiving psychiatric treatment" are instead affirmed, which he described as "disgusting and sad."
Brewer, who played for the Vikings from 2002 to 2005 and has deep ties to Minnesota, including family and coaching involvement in youth sports, felt the situation was personally embarrassing. "As a father and someone whose family is deeply connected to Minnesota sports, I have an eight-year-old daughter who plays highly competitive tennis and competitive soccer," he said. "It is embarrassing."
The incident also highlighted broader discussions within the WNBA regarding women's sports and the inclusion of transgender athletes. Brewer noted that other WNBA coaches, including Natalie Nakase of the Golden State Valkyries, Stephanie White of the Indiana Fever, and Alex Sarama of the Portland Fire, have also faced scrutiny for their responses to questions about protecting women's sports. Additionally, Seattle Storm co-owner Celeste Keaton was reportedly suspended and fined for allegedly berating fans who supported Cunningham's stance.
Brewer advised other coaches and league leaders to "speak the truth" and hold accountable those who he believes are promoting harmful ideologies. He also criticized the WNBA's perceived handling of star player Caitlin Clark, suggesting the league does not fully support her because she does not align with their "victimhood" narrative. Brewer asserted that Clark should be the face of the WNBA, comparing her impact to Michael Jordan's significance to the NBA.
"Caitlin Clark's impact on the WNBA cannot be denied," Brewer said. "She has defined the game. ... Caitlin Clark, like Jerry West, made the sport popular at this particular time and juncture. They need to give this girl her flowers while she is doing it."
Brewer expressed his support for both Clark and Cunningham, stating he is a fan of Cunningham because she stands up for herself and Clark. "I do not care what Black girls, Black men or anyone else has to say. I am a Sophie Cunningham fan," he declared. "I like that she stands up for herself, and I like that she has Caitlin Clark’s back, because so do I."